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Quad Cities Chamber Blog
QC, That's Where the Quad Cities Chamber and area businesses in our family of communities are advancing regional prosperity and advocating for economic growth along the Mississippi River.
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Grow QC and the QC Chamber missions remain strong heading into 2026
December 17, 2025
Here’s a look at what Grow Quad Cities and the Chamber have been focused on as we head into 2026.
Quad Cities Community Partnership attends International Downtown Association Fly-In
April 11, 2025
Kyle Carter, Vice President of Place Management for the Quad Cities Community Partnership, recently attended the International Downtown Association (IDA) Washington D.C. Fly-In to advocate for pro-downtown policies with other downtown Place Management organizations from all over the United States.
Chamber reacts to Bettendorf State of the City address
February 22, 2024
On Wednesday, Feb. 21, Bettendorf Mayor Bob Gallagher delivered the 2024 State of the City address. Many of the initiatives he highlighted align with the Chamber’s local legislative agenda.
New President & CEO of Quad Cities Chamber announced
December 6, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber announced Wednesday that Peter Tokar III, MBA, MEDP will be the next President & CEO starting mid-January 2024. Tokar brings over 17 years of experience serving economic development organizations and municipalities in large markets where regionalism has been a key component of success. He has worked closely with chambers, state and local economic development practitioners, site selectors and elected officials, as well as raised funds from public and private sector sources.
New Operations Manager ready to make an impact in Downtown Rock Island
September 27, 2023
The Rock Island Downtown Alliance has an expanded arsenal of resources with recent additions to personnel, equipment and technology – all designed to boost the new organization’s impact on the downtown. The Downtown Alliance doubled its workforce in September with the hiring of Operations Manager De’Andre Robinson, and there’s great excitement about the impact he’s bringing to the new role.
QC, That’s Where Downtown Leaders are Making a Place that Residents Love
September 14, 2023
The Chamber's downtown placemaking organizations are working every day to make QC downtowns a place that people want to live, work and play in. Let's dive into what's being planned in downtown Rock Island, Davenport and Bettendorf.
Davenport, Bettendorf Students Give Back to their Communities through Bike Racks Project
September 7, 2023
During the 2022-23 school year, welding students from Davenport West High School and Bettendorf High School created 40 bike racks, 20 each to be installed in their respective downtowns. Their inventive efforts are having a positive impact on our region while equipping each student with real-world skills and showing them the power they have to create change in their communities.
Generation Next announces first cohort
August 21, 2023
Generation Next is a brand new program bringing together the best and brightest mid-career professionals to prepare them for careers as community leaders, and the first cohort is all set to embark on their journey. We're proud to announce the first cohort for Generation Next.
Arron Sutherland and Nicole Watson-Lam honored as Co-Volunteers of the Year
August 10, 2023
Arron Sutherland and Nicole Watson-Lam were named Co-Volunteers of the Year. Their success in sparking new economic growth opportunities and improving quality of life in downtown Rock Island is what makes them Co-Volunteers of the year.
2023 Bi-State Legislative Session Recap
July 12, 2023
The State Legislatures of both Iowa and Illinois have concluded their legislative sessions, with consequential legislation passing both Chambers in each state. As a bi-state regional economy, legislation passed in both states impacts all businesses. Here's the legislation you need to know about.
Laborshed study surveying Quad Cities residents
June 6, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber is partnering with Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) and Iowa Economic Development Authority to complete a Laborshed employment study for the Quad Cities area.
What is your QC, That’s Where?
May 17, 2023
The Chamber asked Quad Citizens to provide their QC, That’s Where statements at Hob Nosh, and the responses didn’t disappoint. Each response provided a unique insight into the region’s meaning to the people who call it home.
Illinois House passes resolution for Moline-Chicago passenger rail
May 3, 2023
On Tuesday, May 2, the Illinois House adopted Rep. Gregg Johnson's resolution (HR0167) to urge Gov. Pritzker to make a formal request to the National Transportation Board (NTSB) regarding the QC passenger rail project.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
April 24, 2023
In this third in a series on the Quad Cities economy, we examine wages levels in key industries. We find that wages for many of the occupations most concentrated in the Quad Cities are slightly lower than the national average. However, this is balanced by the lower cost of living here compared to other parts of the country.
Rock Island Downtown Alliance Board Approved
March 28, 2023
Board members for the newly created Rock Island Downtown Alliance were appointed by Mayor Mike Thoms and approved by City Council on March 27, 2023. This marks the next successful step in launching a place management organization affiliated with the Quad Cities Chamber to manage Rock Island’s new downtown Special Service Area.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
March 24, 2023
Manufacturing employment had a good year in the Quad Cities, and the local unemployment rate fell from 5.3% to 4.5% from January 2022 to January 2023. However, continued interest rate increases by the Federal Reserve could pose issues for both the national and local economy in the year ahead.
Minority Business Panel shows challenges facing minority entrepreneurs
March 23, 2023
The journey of an entrepreneur is filled with obstacles at every turn, and solutions to those challenges are hard to come by when you lack a support network. Last week, the Chamber held our first ever Minority Business panel, where attendees learned about the entrepreneurial journeys of four Quad Cities minority business owners who discussed their unique insights regarding challenges they’ve faced as minority businesspersons.
Illinois announces Back to Business grants for creative arts, hotels & restaurants
March 22, 2023
Illinois announced the continuation of the Back 2 Business program with $175 million in three new grant opportunities for creative arts, hotels and restaurants.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
March 17, 2023
On March 10th, Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), a key player in the world of start-up financing, failed due to a run on its deposits. The resulting fallout in the financial markets this week has cast uncertainty on the upcoming Federal Reserve interest rate decision and the likelihood of recession.
Illinois enacts mandatory paid leave
March 15, 2023
Illinois is now the third state to require businesses to grant employees paid time off for any reason. According to the bill, which will become law on Jan. 1, 2024, employees will accrue one hour of paid time off for every 40 hours worked, with the ability to accrue up to 40 hours.
Tamales for Hope illustrates the fighting spirit of a successful entrepreneur
March 15, 2023
Tamales for Hope is one of the Quad Cities’ greatest small business stories. Owner, Carmen Lopez has overcame challenges that go far beyond the typical small business growing pains.
Government Affairs Update
March 14, 2023
The Chamber traveled to Springfield to meet one-on-one with Illinois legislators. The team met with IDOT Secretary Omer Osman to discuss the Moline-Chicago passenger rail project. Here's what he told us.
Weekly Economic Trends and Indicators
March 10, 2023
The U.S. trade deficit increased by about $1 billion on a seasonally adjusted basis (about 1.6%) in January, moving from $67.2 billion to $68.3 billion. Exports jumped by 3.4% from $249.0 billion to $257.5 billion, which was the largest monthly increase since April.
Weekly Economic Trends & Indicators
March 3, 2023
Wage growth slowed for the third consecutive month in January, according to the BLS. Average earnings across all private (non-government) occupations were $33.03 per hour, up from $32.93 in December.
Passenger rail next steps
February 27, 2023
The Chamber has been a longtime advocate in supporting and securing state and federal funding for passenger rail.
PCT Ebeam and Integration expanding Davenport facility
February 27, 2023
PCT Ebeam and Integration, a global-reaching electron-beam technology company, is expanding its operations in the Quad Cities by doubling the size of their existing 30,000-square-foot facility.
Weekly Economic Trends & Indicators
February 24, 2023
A report this week by the real estate firm Redfin stated that the total value of U.S. homes fell by $2.3 trillion from June to December 2022 (decline of 4.9%).
Connecting QC youth with jobs
February 22, 2023
Hundreds of young adults attended the QC Mayors' Young Adult Hiring Fair on Tuesday, Feb. 21. Held at Bettendorf's Waterfront Convention Center, the aspring adults had the opportunity to meet with Quad Cities area businesses to learn more about the diverse job opportunities available in the Quad Cities.
Quad City Steamwheelers Reverse Job Fair seeking employers
February 22, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber is teaming up with IowaWORKS to host the second Quad City Steamwheelers reverse hiring fair on March 13, an event where QC employers will get the opportunity to meet with Steamwheeler athletes who are seeking job opportunities that fit with their professional football schedule.
Government Affairs Update
February 20, 2023
An Iowa bill, SF 167, is a re-write of Iowa's child labor laws that would update allowed work duties. The bill would expand the allowable hours of work and expand school driving permits to include places of employment for kids aged 14-16.
Weekly Economic Trends & Indicators
February 17, 2023
Inflation continues to be a stubborn problem for the U.S. economy. This week saw two important data releases from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Chamber will provide place management services for downtown Rock Island
February 14, 2023
The Chamber is pleased to announce a partnership with the City of Rock Island to provide place management services for downtown.
Government Affairs Update
February 13, 2023
Gov. Pritzker will present his State of the State and budget address to the Illinois legislature this week. An Iowa bill that would limit the monetary award to patients involved in medical malpractice lawsuits is waiting on Gov. Reynolds' signature.
Weekly Economic Trends & Indicators
February 10, 2023
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nonfarm business sector productivity in the U.S. increased 3.0% in the fourth quarter of 2022.
2023 Employee Retention Credit
February 9, 2023
Businesses may be surprised to learn how many organizations (all types and all sizes) are eligible for ERTC and how large the total dollar amount an eligible organization can receive.
Welcome January Members
February 7, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed five new members in January.
Government Affairs Update
February 6, 2023
Illinois House & Senate committee appointments made; in Iowa, watching HF1 and SF181
Second Leadership QC cohort announced
January 26, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber’s second cohort of the nine-month Leadership QC program started this week.
Government Affairs Update
January 23, 2023
We're watching two Iowa Senate Bills this week: SSB 1056 and SF 10.
Government Affairs Update
January 17, 2023
Iowa and Illinois legislators are back in action. Here's a recap of last week.
LaDrina Wilson reflects on MLK Day
January 16, 2023
"My goal for our community is to be a community that is rooted in love, compassion and kindness."
Welcome December New Members
January 11, 2023
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed eight new members in December.
Advocating for QC region in 2023
January 9, 2023
We're gearing up for Illinois and Iowa legislative sessions; learn about our Regional Advocacy Priorities.
Celebrating our region’s 2022 successes
December 20, 2022
As we enter the final days of 2022, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on all the successes our QC region celebrated this year.
Rock Island City Council establishes Special Service Area
December 13, 2022
Rock Island City Council on Dec. 12 approved an ordinance to establish a Downtown Special Service Area (SSA).
Bipartisan agreement will pay off Unemployment Insurance deficit
December 7, 2022
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced a bipartisan agreement has been reached to pay off the remaining $1.36 billion of the pandemic unemployment insurance deficit. This will save businesses more than $900 million in higher taxes and preserve the solvency of the Unemployment Trust Fund.
Glad you’ve joined us! Meet our newest members
December 6, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed four new members in November. Thank you to each of these organizations for their unique contributions and investment in our region's success- you are making an impact.
Economic outlook: stubborn inflation, rising rates, slower growth
December 1, 2022
At the Quad Cities Chamber’s Economic Forecast, Kevin Depew, RSM Deputy Chief Economist and National Industry Eminence Program Leader, provided an in-depth analysis of the national and regional economy and offered macroeconomic perspectives and industry insights to help QC middle market businesses prepare for the coming year.
SSA right move for downtown Rock Island
December 1, 2022
The time is now to move forward with a proven path and create an SSA in partnership with a new place management organization affiliated with the Quad Cities Chamber to help revitalize downtown Rock Island.
Midland Davis opens pallet refurbishing division
November 30, 2022
Midland Davis Corp., one of the oldest full-service recycling companies in the Midwest, has expanded its operations and launched a wood pallet refurbishing division in Rock Island. This fifth-generation family company is now collecting, repairing, reconstructing and selling refurbished wood pallets to customers in the region.
Cocina Verde food truck on the road providing 100% vegan authentic Mexican food
November 29, 2022
Karen and Emmanuel García launched their business, the Cocina Verde food truck earlier this year. Before they did so, they turned to the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at WIU-QC for guidance. The Quad Cities Chamber partners with the Illinois SBDC at WIU-QC on providing outreach and services to minority-owned businesses in the region.
Building on vibrancy and livability of downtown RI
November 28, 2022
As the City of Rock Island considers establishing a downtown Special Service Area (SSA), the Chamber has been honored to work alongside the City, downtown property owners and businesses. Hear Chamber CEO, Dr. LaDrina Wilson's message on this opportunity.
QC, that’s where we support our small businesses
November 15, 2022
QC, that’s where entrepreneurs enrich us with their innovation and inventive imagination. It is where small business owners invest – dollars, as well as lots of heart & soul – into our region’s success. And it is where we reciprocate by investing in them, too. QC, that’s where we put our money where our community is, embracing the movement and the power of doing business local.
Viewpoint: SSA is a vehicle to build and celebrate downtown RI
November 15, 2022
Positive action requires positive vision, and the Rock Island City Council and staff deserve applause for taking that approach to revitalizing downtown and considering the establishment of a Special Service Area (SSA). At the Quad Cities Chamber, we truly believe in the value of downtowns and place, and we see the SSA as a vehicle to move everyone in the same positive direction toward building and celebrating this place.
QC, that’s where our love of nature is good for business & all who live here
November 9, 2022
QC, that’s where environmental stewardship isn’t a trend – it’s a value on full display. It is where Midland Davis Corp. sparked the QC’s recycling revolution – starting in 1892. And where conserving the environment and protecting shared resources is part of everyday best practices for QC-headquartered West Liberty Foods. It is where an EPA-declared Superfund Site was reclaimed by the community and became Nahant Marsh Education Center - a remarkable natural playground we get to explore.
IL & IA DOT seek feedback on I-80 bridge alternatives
November 2, 2022
Officials from Illinois and Iowa Departments of Transportation (DOT) continue to study alternatives for the I-80 bridge and recommended moving forward with alternatives two, three, four and five. Illinois DOT and Iowa DOT will accept public comment on the four options through Nov. 10 and businesses are encouraged to share feedback with the states and the Chamber.
November ballot – no change to Illinois Constitution needed
October 28, 2022
On November 8, Illinois voters will be asked to amend a portion of the Illinois Constitution. On sample ballots in Rock Island, Henry and Mercer counties, the amendment will be listed as “Proposed Amendment to the 1970 Illinois Constitution.” Read the Chamber's position on this amendment.
Chamber Business Forum stresses need for creating an inclusive workforce culture
October 28, 2022
Evidence has shown that what holds a company together as it progresses, evolves and becomes successful is the people; and what makes the people want to be there is the workplace culture. During the Chamber’s Oct. 26 Business Forum: Cultivating an Inclusive Workplace Culture, attendees heard from three QC business leaders who are connecting with job-seekers and employees.
Rock Island Arsenal soon to be home to world’s largest 3D printer
October 26, 2022
The world’s largest metal additive 3D printer, a machine capable of printing a joint-free hull for the U.S. Army’s next-generation combat vehicle, is expected to be up and running at the Joint Manufacturing Technology Center (JMTC) on the Rock Island Arsenal next spring. It is a story of remarkable innovation that can revolutionize warfighter survivability and illustrates the power of partnerships between the Chamber-affiliated Rock Island Arsenal Defense Alliance (RIADA); federal, state and local elected officials; ASTRO America; and the U.S. Army.
New grant award to help local manufacturers and defense contractors
October 25, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber is one of four Illinois Defense Manufacturing Consortium (ILDMC) community members that will share a $5 million grant to help local manufacturing companies and defense contractors grow through operational excellence, innovative technology and workforce.
Jenelle Wolber earns Economic Development Finance Professional certification
October 19, 2022
Jenelle Wolber, Director, Business & Economic Growth Services for the Quad Cities Chamber, was recently certified as an Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) by the National Development Council (NDC). Wolber is the Chamber’s lead for Business and Economic Growth projects. She works closely with QC and prospective businesses, ensuring they understand the benefits their projects will have on the region and know about all financial assistance opportunities.
QC is a green energy powerhouse for businesses
October 11, 2022
QC, that’s where a diverse portfolio of green energy allows mega manufacturers, global corporations and small businesses to enjoy the 11th lowest electricity rates in America. It's where industry powerhouses and corner craft breweries operate on renewable, sustainable and carbon-free energy. It is where corporate social responsibility becomes action, upheld through a diverse portfolio of low-cost, abundant and reliable energy sources.
Applauding QC manufacturers during National Manufacturing Month
October 5, 2022
QC, that’s where manufacturing is the powerhouse that fuels our region’s economy. That’s where we are building on the legacy of John Deere, a global giant that remains rooted in the QC and the genesis for countless spinoffs and innovators. That’s where businesses are embracing advanced manufacturing technology and robotics, leading their companies and highly skilled workers into the future. Let's celebrate our regional manufacturers during National Manufacturing Month for the massive impact they make.
QC companies reflect and elevate the goals of a new generation
September 13, 2022
When you find a company that aligns with your values, a career isn't work – it’s a calling, a fun avenue to contribute and enrich the community in which you live.
Jenna Blozevich is living that life in the Quad Cities, and she’s far from alone. Young professionals are planting roots in this growing riverfront region because the QC and the companies that call it home reflect and elevate the goals of a new generation.
FAQ: Downtown Rock Island Special Service Area
September 13, 2022
The process to establish a downtown Rock Island Special Service Area (SSA) as a vehicle to stabilize investments and revitalize the greater downtown has entered the public comment phase. Learn how to provide input, the timeline and read the FAQ about the proposed SSA and place management organization.
Leadership QC forges a path to strengthen our region
September 6, 2022
Leadership QC is a program anchored in corporate social responsibility and when we launched it eight months ago, we challenged 23 business, nonprofit and community leaders to approach the region’s most pressing issues in a comprehensive and collaborative manner. The group heard from a variety of government and nonprofit organizations, learning more about the QC as well as strengthening their leadership skills. This is the path to advancing and growing our region, and many participants arrived at the first session in January already dedicated to that mission.
Fair Oaks Foods breaks ground on a $134 million investment in the QC
September 1, 2022
After growing nearly 500% in the past 30 years, Fair Oaks Foods celebrated another milestone on Thursday, Sept. 1, with a groundbreaking for a new state-of-the-art production facility in the Quad Cities. The event, attended by the City of Davenport, Quad Cities Chamber and additional community leaders, marked the company’s first expansion outside Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, and a $134 million investment in the region.
The Granary Coffee House & Brewery ‘crafts’ are boosting QC economy
August 30, 2022
Since opening in May, The Granary Coffee House & Brewery has stood true to its mission, providing the QC with a unique destination offering all things craft. It is an entrepreneurial success story and one for the QC region, too. The Granary Coffee House & Brewery created more than seven jobs and is expected to have a $559,483 annual economic impact on our six-county region.
Bayside Bistro is making an impact on our region and its customers
August 30, 2022
The recent expansion of Bayside Bistro into Rock Island did more than contribute to the economic success and strength of the city; it is having that same effect on the entire QC region. Between the investment in the building and equipment, the jobs created and owners Darryl and LaTisha Howlett’s growing businesses and customer base, Bayside Bistro will have an annual economic impact of $645,726 on our region.
Welcome our newest members!
August 29, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber welcomed seven new members in August 2022. Thank you to each of these organizations for their unique contributions and investment in our region's success- you are making an impact.
QC is the place for budding entrepreneurs
August 23, 2022
A solid home base for budding entrepreneurs, the Quad Cities region attracts talent with intriguing business opportunities, great quality of life and a diverse mix of arts, culture, sports, parks and nightlife.
“Manufacturing Matters” tour visits Quad Cities, highlights industry’s important role in state and regional economy
August 23, 2022
A new economic study finds manufacturing generates $4.9 billion in economic output in Rock Island County and supports 13,050 jobs. The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) released those findings during a “Manufacturing Matters” tour stop in Moline.
Fall 2022 Chamber events: providing the information, resources and connections you need
August 19, 2022
We strive to provide the critical information, resources and opportunities QC businesses need to thrive. In our Fall 2022 events line-up, we open the room for you to connect and build relationships with people from all industries. And we provide a stage for you to gain timely, relevant information that ties to the success of your business and our region.
Chamber awarded $3 million State of Illinois grant for Downtown Rock Island Revitalization
August 15, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber, in partnership with the City of Rock Island, today announced that it has been selected to receive a $3 million grant for downtown Rock Island revitalization.
Annual Meeting celebrates Chamber achievements and collective wins
August 11, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber held its Annual Meeting, presented by TBK Bank, on Thursday, Aug. 11, at Rhythm City Casino Resort. During the luncheon event Chamber leaders highlighted the organization’s accomplishments from the past year and announced LaDrina Wilson as CEO. Focused on facilitating business growth, the Chamber advocates for businesses, provides resources and builds networks. By serving as collaborators, conveners and connectors, the Chamber engages and aligns with partners to create a prosperous regional economy where all can thrive.
Kathy Daily honored as Chamber’s Volunteer of the Year
August 11, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber honored Kathy Daily with the Volunteer of the Year award during its 2022 Annual Meeting presented by TBK Bank. Daily served on the Board of Directors and Finance Committee of the Downtown Davenport Partnership (DDP), a Chamber affiliate placemaking and place management organization, for nine years and also spent four years as treasurer. She recently completed her third term on the board. However, she was part of the downtown community for much longer.
Ambassadors recognized for 10+ years of service to Quad Cities Chamber
August 11, 2022
During the Quad Cities Chamber 2022 Annual Meeting, we honored nine Ambassadors who’ve generously served as volunteers to this organization for 10 years or more. All of them also have served as Ambassadors in our predecessor organizations, some giving 20 to 30 years total.
Chamber recognizes Quad City Engineering Co. as Business of the Year
August 11, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber honored Quad City Engineering Co., Inc., as the Business of the Year at its 2022 Annual Meeting presented by TBK Bank. Quad City Engineering is a design and tool manufacturing facility that serves local and national customers through 3-D design and build of tooling, dies, welding, fabrication and small-run production. The company has experienced significant growth in the past 18 months.
Advocacy Councils will provide insight into policy that will strengthen QC economy
August 2, 2022
The Chamber has created two new Advocacy Councils to strengthen our efforts and the conversations we will have with local, state and federal elected officials. Regional business leaders, experts in their respective sectors, are providing us guidance in the policy arena as members of the Mobility & Infrastructure Council and the Tax & Regulation Council.
New SSA and place management organization proposed to help revitalize downtown Rock Island
July 25, 2022
Downtown Rock Island property owners seeking to stabilize their investment and revitalize downtown submitted a proposal to the Rock Island City Council on Monday, formally requesting it to consider establishing a Special Service Area (SSA) in partnership with a new Quad Cities Chamber place management organization.
Terry Ambrozi: 43 years ‘in the front seat’ at the Chamber
July 19, 2022
Terry Ambrozi has a long history with the Chamber – June marked her 43rd year – but she doesn’t feel like she’s worked a day in her life, at least, not in the usual sense of “work.” According to Ambrozi, "If you love what you’re doing, it doesn’t feel like work,” she said.
Mid-Year Economic Outlook White Paper
July 19, 2022
Many businesses are concerned about the future path of the economy. In a mid-year U.S. Economic Outlook White Paper, Dr. Kenneth A. Kriz, Distinguished Professor of Public Administration and Director of the Institute of Public Finance at the University of Illinois, leans on three forecast models to weigh the potential for a recession.
From public sculpture to vibrant murals, the QC’s creative current comes alive
July 13, 2022
This summer, through the Quad City Arts’ Public Sculpture Program and Metro Arts Youth Apprenticeship Program, our region celebrated 16 new installations across our family of communities. The Quad Cities Chamber and our affiliated placemaking and place management organizations: Downtown Bettendorf Organization (DBO), Downtown Davenport Partnership (DDP) and Downtown Rock Island recognize and value the impact the arts have on our region and in the work we do.
Introducing and thanking our Board of Directors
July 8, 2022
We welcome our new officers and five new board members and thank our four retiring members for all they have and continue to do to strengthen our region. To all past and present members of the board, your commitment is commendable and deeply appreciated.
Chamber holds site consultant tour of QC and multiplies our region’s reach
July 6, 2022
Last week the Chamber’s team hosted four national site consultants who spent two days immersed in the region, learning more about our targeted industries, businesses, workforce higher education programs and partnerships, plentiful natural resources and the QC’s innovative spirit.
LaDrina Wilson will serve as Interim CEO, Chair of Chamber Board
July 1, 2022
Starting July 5, Dr. LaDrina Wilson, Quad Cities Chamber Board Chair and CEO of IMAN Consulting, will serve as the organization’s Interim CEO.
Thank you to our Golf Outing sponsors
June 22, 2022
The Quad Cities Chamber Golf Outing was a success thanks to our sponsors. Despite a short bout of rain, more than 200 golfers enjoyed a day of networking and friendly competition on the greens at Pinnacle Country Club. We encourage everyone to support the businesses that made this event possible.
QC transportation assets are a clear business advantage
June 21, 2022
The QC's transportation assets are an advantage to all businesses and Fortune 500 companies – like Arconic -- that call this region home. They enable the constant flow of products and supplies – on ground and in air – essential for ImpactLife to achieve its mission. And access to road, rail and river allows Alter Logistics to provide customized transportation and distribution solutions for businesses here and across the world.
Fair Oaks Foods announces $134 million investment in new food production facility in Davenport
June 14, 2022
Fair Oaks Foods is planning to construct a state-of-the-art food production facility in Davenport, pending state and local project approvals. The $134 million investment includes a 150,000 square-foot facility in the Eastern Iowa Industrial Center and will create an estimated 247 new full-time jobs. The company plans to start operations in early 2024. This development is expected to have an annual economic impact of $182 million, making it the largest business attraction project in the region’s history.
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signs Family Bereavement Leave Act into law
June 10, 2022
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed The Family Bereavement Act into law on Thursday, expanding bereavement leave to include pregnancy loss or other situations impacting fertility, adoption or pregnancy. The Support Through Loss Act requires employers to provide up to two weeks of unpaid leave.
New state childcare grant can help employers recruit & retain workers
June 7, 2022
The underlying issue of a lack of workforce in some cases may be a barrier to employment - access to high-quality, affordable childcare. “During several site visits with manufacturers, the topic of workforce eventually comes up,” said Chris Caves, VP, Business & Economic Growth for the Chamber. “We’ve learned that workforce shortages can have many nuances, and one key factor is lack of childcare for employees.” Recently, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced a new Child Care Business Incentive Grant Program to incentivize employer investment in childcare.
Our QC community ‘is really strong and really special’
June 7, 2022
The QC is the heart of the Midwest, a proud, forward-thinking family of communities connected by the mighty Mississippi. Young professionals like Haley DeGreve love it here because they want to be part of its roots and reach-- to live in a place that is as genuine as it is quirky, a region where they can start something and make a difference, where they enjoy an open-minded network and drive that makes the region a hub of ambition for a new generation.
Deere & Company sponsoring first IGNITE class, registration now open
June 1, 2022
Deere & Company is sponsoring the first class of IGNITE to introduce high school students and adult learners to Advanced Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 skills, careers and the many opportunities available to them. Registration is now open and seats are limited. Offered by Black Hawk College, this new, multi-module program enables high school and adult learners to develop critical foundational skills in advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0.
Iowa Legislature compromises, ends gridlock and adjourns session
May 31, 2022
The Iowa Legislature adjourned the Second Session of the 89th General Assembly in the early hours of May 25th, after a nearly month-long gridlock. Governor Kim Reynolds and leadership in both the House and Senate worked to find a compromise on key policy issues including the FY 2023 budget, Iowa’s bottle bill, tax reform, pharmacy benefit managers, and education savings accounts (ESA). Agreements were reached on all priorities with the exception of ESA.
Post your member job openings on our website for free
May 31, 2022
The talent shortage is a challenge that we are collectively tackling with businesses, organizations and members throughout the region. Collaboration is key, and there is one more thing you can do. Post your Member Job Opportunities for free on our website.
The QC is an incredible place to work, live and play
May 31, 2022
An affordable cost of living, great ground-level business opportunities, a thriving arts and music scene, a welcoming local community — these and other winning factors merge to make the Quad Cities a great place to live, work and play.
Sweet Tooth Snacks expands direct to consumer and opens two storefronts
May 24, 2022
When contracts with national retailers were cut back, the destination for popcorn and all things snacking went from supplying gift baskets to big-box stores around the country to providing personal and corporate gifts directly to consumers. Jody Britton, Owner & CEO, Sweet Tooth Snacks, has since opened two storefronts and hired more than 25 employees to keep up with QC and national market demand.
Downtown Rock Island awarded State of Illinois grant for Arts Alley
May 24, 2022
Arts Alley, the public alleyway at 1719 2nd Ave. in Downtown Rock Island, will undergo a major facelift thanks to a $267,181 grant award to the Quad Cities Chamber and City of Rock Island from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).
Kyle Carter earns Leader in Place Management designation
May 18, 2022
Kyle Carter has earned the newly established designation of Certified Leader in Place Management by the International Downtown Association (IDA). Carter is the Quad Cities Chamber Vice President, Place Management and Executive Director of the Downtown Davenport Partnership (DDP). The IDA certification recognizes Carter demonstrates the deep knowledge necessary to lead a place management organization.
Five QC companies thriving in the Midwest
May 18, 2022
Five innovative companies headquartered in the QC distribute products and services throughout the U.S. Whether making KETO pizza crusts, creating cutting-edge websites, supporting dental practices through niche IT, providing essential engineering services to build amazing structures or designing beautifully packaged specialty popcorn and sweets, these businesses are thriving in the heart of the Midwest.
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